Oristano, 19 August (LaPresse) – The number of human cases of West Nile virus recorded in the province of Oristano has risen to 18. Two new patients have been confirmed as having the infection: a man in his seventies and a man in his fifties, both of whom were admitted to San Martino Hospital in Oristano after developing symptoms of the disease. The Prevention Department of Local Health Authority 5 has launched the epidemiological investigations and preventive measures required in such cases. The relevant authorities will also carry out pest control operations in the areas where the infected individuals live. The first case in the Oristano area was recorded in May in a man in his sixties. Subsequent cases have included a patient in his nineties who died after contracting the virus. Several other patients have been admitted to San Martino Hospital: some are still under observation, whilst others have already been discharged and have returned home. In light of the rise in infections, the Local Health Authority is once again urging the elderly and vulnerable in particular to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as mosquitoes are the main carriers of the virus. “We once again urge residents, particularly the vulnerable and the elderly, to avoid potentially risky situations and to protect themselves from being bitten by this insect,” explains Maria Valentina Marras, director of the Prevention Department. The recommended measures include eliminating standing water, using insect repellent sprays and wearing long clothing when spending time outdoors, and fitting mosquito nets to windows. “Let us continue to protect ourselves with these essential measures to prevent and guard against the disease,” emphasises the Director-General of ASL 5, Grazia Cattina, whilst also urging those who care for the elderly and children to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken.
West Nile: the number of cases in the Oristano area rises to 18
Oristano, 19 August (LaPresse) – The number of human cases of West Nile virus recorded in the province of Oristano has risen to 18. Two new patients have been confirmed as having the infection: a man in his seventies and a man in his fifties, both of whom were admitted to San Martino Hospital in Oristano after developing symptoms of the disease. The Prevention Department of Local Health Authority 5 has launched the epidemiological investigations and preventive measures required in such cases. The relevant authorities will also carry out pest control operations in the areas where the infected individuals live. The first case in the Oristano area was recorded in May in a man in his sixties. Subsequent cases have included a patient in his nineties who died after contracting the virus. Several other patients have been admitted to San Martino Hospital: some are still under observation, whilst others have already been discharged and have returned home. In light of the rise in infections, the Local Health Authority is once again urging the elderly and vulnerable in particular to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as mosquitoes are the main carriers of the virus. “We once again urge residents, particularly the vulnerable and the elderly, to avoid potentially risky situations and to protect themselves from being bitten by this insect,” explains Maria Valentina Marras, director of the Prevention Department. The recommended measures include eliminating standing water, using insect repellent sprays and wearing long clothing when spending time outdoors, and fitting mosquito nets to windows. “Let us continue to protect ourselves with these essential measures to prevent and guard against the disease,” emphasises the Director-General of ASL 5, Grazia Cattina, whilst also urging those who care for the elderly and children to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken.